Mr Perrett said Ms Rice was recognised for her outstanding work in our community, helping to build bridges of understanding and encourage participation.

"Adele has been the Principal of Milpera State High School in Chelmer since 1984," he said.

"Through her work she has supported newly arrived refugee youth and created a multitude of partnerships with community agencies.

"And she has received many awards for her work including the Multicultural Achiever - Education and Technology in 2008.

Good work deserves to be championed and I am pleased that Ms Rice has been recognised on a national level."

The Ambassador program is a key initiative of the Gillard Labor Government's multicultural policy, The People of Australia, announced last year.

Mr Perrett said the local Ambassadors now had a new platform to promote their good work and share their ideas and initiatives with the rest of Australia.

As a new Ambassador, Adele Rice will be able to provide advice to Government and the Australian Multicultural Council. Her contribution will help assist and strengthen the Government's multicultural policy.

Mr Perrett said the selection of a local speaks to the strength of our community and our capacity as a nation to welcome people and make them feel part of our community.

The 2012 Ambassadors' term commences today and ends on 30 December 2012.